A buildup of fat in the liver can occur with certain conditions, including alcohol-associated liver disease (such as alcoholic fatty liver disease) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). If you have fat buildup in your liver, you may experience abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side.

This pain is one of several possible symptoms that may develop with the condition.

Many people with steatotic liver disease (previously known as fatty liver disease) don’t experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • abdominal pain: typically a dull or aching pain in the upper right side of the abdomen (over the lower right side of the ribs)
  • fatigue: extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest
  • general discomfort: feeling unwell or experiencing malaise
  • unexplained weight loss: particularly in more advanced cases of fatty liver

As the condition progresses to more severe forms, symptoms may become more pronounced. Abdominal pain may be a sign of advanced stages of liver disease.

Abdominal pain associated with fat buildup in the liver typically:

  • presents in the upper right area of the abdomen
  • worsens when the liver is under strain (e.g., after consuming alcohol or gaining significant weight)
  • ranges from mild discomfort to more severe pain

It’s important to note, however, that stomach pain can have various causes, even if you know you have steatotic liver disease. Always check with your doctor, who can properly evaluate your symptoms.

A doctor may use a combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scan), and sometimes liver biopsy to diagnose your condition and determine the cause of abdominal pain.

Stomach pain can sometimes be a sign of complications such as:

  • ascites
  • liver cancer
  • a blockage of the vein taking blood to the liver (portal hypertension)
  • liver scarring (fibrosis) that can develop into the more severe cirrhosis

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

  • persistent abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
  • severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly
  • abdominal pain accompanied by other symptoms like extreme fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or swelling in your abdomen or legs

It’s important to seek help early to help prevent your condition from progressing and to find relief from your pain.

While not everyone with steatotic liver disease will experience stomach pain, upper right abdominal pain is a known symptom, particularly as the condition advances.

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical help to determine the root cause of your pain and get appropriate treatment.